FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 11, 2021
Contact: Danielle Casey, AED, dcasey@abq.org, 602-332-8511
Debbie Johnson Named Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient by AED
Awards Program Recognizes Leadership in Economic Development
Albuquerque, NM – Albuquerque Economic Development, Inc. announced Debbie Johnson as the Lifetime Achievement Award recipient for the third annual 505 Awards, which recognize organizations and individuals that are making exceptional contributions to economic growth and prosperity in the Albuquerque metro area, resulting in improvements to the region’s overall economic strength.
The Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Bank of Albuquerque, recognizes an individual whose ongoing commitment to economic development has made a significant and lasting impact on the Albuquerque metro area. This individual must have a demonstrated history of supporting and implementing economic development initiatives in the Albuquerque metro area over a minimum period of 15 years; must be a positive role model in the community; and must have a track record of executing projects that create jobs, diversify the region’s economy and spur investment in the state.
“On behalf of the Albuquerque community, AED extends our most sincere gratitude to Debbie Johnson for her tremendous contributions to the local economy, to continual economic development in Albuquerque, and to the community as a whole,” said Danielle Casey, AED President & CEO. “We honor her hard work, vision and commitment.”
“I am very honored to receive the 505 Lifetime Leadership in Economic Development Award from AED….but feel it is a little premature, as I am optimistic that my lifetime is not over just yet! And neither is my dedication and commitment to economic progress and strategic development in New Mexico,” Johnson said. “I feel we have more opportunities now than ever before—this is a pivotal time for our state, and it is my huge hope that we can unify our efforts and focus on several key objectives to maximize our assets and momentum. At a time when the country is painfully divided, let’s demonstrate how, in New Mexico, we comprender colaboracion!”
Honorees were selected from nominations that took place in the summer. Nominations were open from any source, and to be considered, nominees were required to accept their nominations and provide follow-up documentation of their work.
Johnson, along with the remaining 505 Awards honorees, will be recognized at the inaugural celebration from 6–9pm on December 9 at Hotel Albuquerque. The event, sponsored by True Health New Mexico, will combine AED’s annual business meeting, a year in review presentation, a look ahead to the future, and the 505 Awards celebration.
To attend the 2021 Inaugural Annual Dinner, where honorees will be recognized, or for more information on awards categories, eligibility requirements or judging criteria, visit https://www.abq.org/2021dinner/.
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About AED
AED is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to recruit business and industry, help local companies grow and generate quality job opportunities throughout the Albuquerque metro area. AED provides confidential assistance to businesses considering the area for expansion and new investment. Since its creation in 1960, AED has recruited more than 250 companies and more than 35,000 jobs to the Albuquerque metro area. AED also provides retention and expansion assistance to existing industry. For more information about AED, visit www.abq.org.
About The 505 Awards
The Leadership in Economic Development Awards recognizes individuals and organizations that are making exceptional contributions to economic growth and prosperity.